In an agricultural society land is everything. As you go down through generations the land is split into smaller plots for the heirs. Some had no option but go

In an agricultural society land is everything. As you go down through generations the land is split into smaller plots for the heirs. Some had no option but go into the clergy, or alternate occupation. The industrial revolution opened the doors to lots of folk who otherwise would be completely destitute. Back in those days a merchant "afford" a houseboy or housemaid because people were really poor. The factory, though demanding, boring and dangerous by today's standards was a better alternative to many.